subject: Yeast Infections - Treatments [print this page] Sometimes it is hard to determine if you have a yeast infection, or another type of infection. The fungus Candida Albicans causes yeast infections. This fungus is present in our bodies and thrives in moist environments such as the vaginal area or the mouth. When the environment in the vagina is affected, the balance is upset, and the good bacteria are unable to control the Candida albicans to restore balance. This will result in a yeast infection. Many factors can cause the balance in the vagina's environment to alter. Some drugs, steroids, antibiotics, treatments and even birth control pills may affect the environment in the vagina, therefore promoting the development of a yeast infection. Other times it is things that we do that will cause it, such as wearing tight underwear of materials that promote moisture or tight clothes around the crotch area. Sometimes it is the result of a diet that is high in sugar, or the result of some conditions such as diabetes.
There are common symptoms associated with a Yeast infection such as a burning sensation when urinating or having intercourse, pain in the abdomen, or painful urination, also an itch or rash in the vulva area, vaginal soreness, and in some cases a whitish odorless discharge. Yeast infection can occur in your digestive tract too. There are some over the counter treatments for yeast infections that are very successful. If after using these over the counter methods, you find that you have not improved, then maybe it is more than a yeast infection and you should consult your physician or gynecologist. Your doctor will recommend an oral antibiotic or topical/vaginal tablet that will require a prescription.
Some of these over the counter treatments for yeast infections are in the form of vaginal tablets or topical creams. Other methods include Homeopathic sprays to be applied under the tongue. Oils to be applied with a tampon, and oral supplements to control the balance of the Candida in your body. Other treatments include boric acid vaginal tablets, and taking garlic supplements. Eating yogurt with live cultures is recommended to restore the balance of the Candida in your body.
Some popular names of over the counter treatments (OTC) and their generic names are Monistat (miconazole), Terazol3 (terconazole), Femstat 3 (butoconazole), and Lotrimin (cotrimazole).
Terazol, Monistat, and Lotrimin are also available as vaginal tablets. Other vaginal tablets available are Mycostatin (nystatin), Mycelex (clotrimazole), and Micatin (miconazole).
There are of course the prevention methods that were mentioned at the beginning of the article, and the use of common sense to call your doctor if you see that your yeast infection is not going away.
